Rapper Lil&rsquo; Webbie Arrested By TN Highway Patrol

Wednesday, April 06, 2011 | 11:26am

NASHVILLE --- Webster Gradney, Jr., also known as rapper Lil’ Webbie, faces drug possession and tampering with evidence charges after being arrested by the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) on Monday, April 4 in Marshall County.

THP Sgt. Wayne Dunkleman, a former Interdiction Plus Team Leader, stopped a rented 2010 Nissan Altima for speeding on Interstate 65 southbound at the 32 mile marker at approximately 9:40 a.m. on Monday. The vehicle was occupied by four individuals, including Mr. Gradney, 25, of Baton Rouge, La.

As the vehicle pulled over, Sgt. Dunkleman observed Mr. Gradney, the front passenger, throw what was believed to be marijuana out of the window. The officer approached the vehicle and immediately secured Mr. Gradney, finding $13,240 in a card board box on his lap and two ounces of marijuana on his person. Sgt. Dunkleman then also recovered a loaded .357 revolver from passenger Michael Abbott, 22, of Baton Rouge. He also had $916 in his possession.

With the assistance of Sgt. Will Spivy, the officers learned that the subjects were en route to Baton Rouge after a performance by Gradney in Louisville, Ky., on Sunday, April 3rd. Upon further investigation, it was also discovered that driver Derric Watson, 34, of Zachary, La., was operating on a suspended driver license.

All subjects were arrested and taken to the Marshall County Jail. Gradney was charged with possession of schedule VI with intent to manufacture, sale or deliver and tampering with evidence. His bond was set at $21,000.

Abbott was charged with intent of going armed, while Watson was charged with driving on a suspended license. The fourth occupant, Tyrone Terrio, 34, of Baton Rouge was charged with possession of marijuana. Their bond was $2,000 each.

The marijuana and currency was seized in accordance with state law. The vehicle was released to the rental company. Photos of the suspects can be obtained from the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office.

The Tennessee Department of Safety’s (www.TN.Gov/safety) mission is to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.